Diversity and Inclusion

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DIVERSITY STATEMENT

University of Delaware

Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice

Definition of Diversity:

The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect. It means understanding that each individual is unique and it recognizes individual differences. Such difference can be along the dimensions of age, race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, SES, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, culture, ideology, politics, religion, citizenship, marital status, job classification, veteran status, parental status, body size and justice-involved histories. Diversity includes, therefore, knowing how to relate to the qualities and conditions that are different from our own and which are present in other individuals and groups. We acknowledge that categories of difference are not always fixed but also can be fluid.[1]

Mission Statement:

The Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice values diversity, equality, inclusivity and representation in all of our campus-wide and community work with students, staff, faculty, and Delaware residents. Given the historical and structural nature of advantages for some groups and disadvantages to others, we seek to redress the barriers individuals and groups have experienced because of their age, race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, SES, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, culture, ideology, politics, religion, citizenship, marital status, job classification, veteran status, parental status, body size and justice-involved histories. Although these groups and others have dealt with disadvantage, our concerns lie with those who have historically experienced the greatest barriers and disadvantages. Obstacles for such groups stand in opposition to our commitment to diversity. The values of diversity, equality, inclusivity and representation are vital to us in our own individual endeavors as well as to our professional organizations and disciplines. We recognize also their importance to the lives and identities of those we serve inside and outside of the classroom, on and off campus. We celebrate and promote these values not only because they characterize our democracy, but also because they enrich all aspects of our work and personal lives. We commit, as a department, to implement best practices in the promotion of these values.

Increase the representation of historically, currently under-represented and diverse groups in our department as students, staff, and faculty.

Increase the promotion of historically, currently under-represented and diverse groups in our department as students, staff, and faculty.

Increase the retainment of historically, currently under-represented and diverse groups in our department as students, staff, and faculty.

Practices-

a. Ensure that all members of our department have equal access to full participation in department events and activities.

b. Create new and offer existing opportunities to students, staff and faculty of diverse communities so that they may participate in and contribute to all department activities (research, teaching, service).

c. Provide social and financial support, via facilitating access to all internal and external resources, in order to promote the success of diverse communities.

2. Create and Maintain a Supportive Environment

Foster a supportive and welcoming environment for students, staff, and faculty from underrepresented populations.

Support and care for the professional development and needs of department members from historically and currently under-representative groups.

Promote and adopt inclusive educational practices in the classroom and in other interactions with students

Practices-

a. Explore/identify potential barriers to equality and inclusion at the university (for graduate students?) and take active measures in confronting them.

b. Identify and remove barriers to equality and inclusivity in all of our teaching, research, and service activities.

3.Engage with and Advocate from with Communities

Engage multiple worldviews and perspectives by increasing awareness of diversity across the department and university.

Practices-

a. Organize and facilitate diversity-minded events and advocacy efforts that foster critical reflection on community issues and challenge discrimination.

b. Use the department's expertise to advocate for social justice, inclusion, and equitable treatment within the broader community.

c. Strengthen community partnerships with a focus on diverse constituents for the benefit of the community, university, and department.